Work

Pilot-scale structured bed reactor with intermittent aeration: a novel strategy for simultaneous nitrogen and carbon removal from domestic sewage with industrial contribution

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The treatment of domestic sewage with industrial contributions presents significant challenges due to the variability in influent characteristics and the presence of industrial pollutants. This study develops a novel and efficient pilot-scale system for simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) to remove carbon and nitrogen from real domestic sewage using intermittent aeration. The structured bed reactor with intermittent aeration (SBRIA) achieved a total nitrogen removal efficiency of 54 ± 20%, with nitrification at 62 ± 20% and denitrification at 85 ± 15%. The system also demonstrated effective removal of organic matter, with a 57 ± 28% reduction in total chemical oxygen demand (CODT) and 87 ± 16% in COD after sedimentation (CODs), indicating its efficacy in organic matter degradation, although a decanting unit may be required to optimize solids separation. Additionally, the system successfully managed pH and alkalinity consumption without the addition of alkalinizing agents, maintaining mean values of 7.0 ± 0.8 for pH and 166.8 ± 79.8 mg L⁻¹ for alkalinity. The SBRIA showed resilience to toxic shocks, adapting to the high influent variability typical of wastewater with industrial contributions. Overall, the SBRIA offers a promising, cost-effective solution for wastewater treatment, demonstrating significant potential for large-scale applications in removing nitrogen and organic matter.

Source: Brazilian Journal of Chemical Engineering

DOI: 10.1007/s43153-026-00661-9